Imran Khan sought assurance from US before ‘foreign conspiracy’ charge, says ex-CIA chief

ISLAMABAD: Former CIA Counter-Terror Station Chief in Islamabad, John Kiriakou, has claimed that former Prime Minister Imran Khan contacted the US ambassador before accusing America of interference in Pakistan’s politics.

According to Kiriakou, Imran Khan informed the US envoy that he was about to make allegations against the United States but wanted assurance that no action would be taken against him. He said the American establishment responded positively to Khan’s request.

The former CIA officer further claimed that Imran Khan sent a message saying, “Please save me,” but Pakistan’s military leadership refused to accept any recommendation from Washington in his favor.

Kiriakou also alleged that US officials asked Khan’s ex-wife, Jemima Goldsmith, to contact people in Pakistan on his behalf, but her recommendation was also ignored.

He added, “Pakistan’s generals no longer follow our advice, and that’s a growing concern in Washington.”

Imran Khan prior to his incarnation had always alleged of a US-backed conspiracy behind his removal.

Both the US and Pakistan’s military have vigorously denied Khan’s allegations, and the former Prime Minister has refused to offer anything substantive to back up his charges.